🚨 2013 Kia Sedona: Emergency Neutral
The 2013 Sedona (second generation, YP) uses a traditional console-mounted gear lever with electronic shift lock.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on level ground and the parking brake is firmly engaged
- Turn the ignition key to the ACC or ON position if battery has any charge remaining
- Locate the shift lock override slot on the left side of the shifter base, near the driver's side edge of the shifter bezel
- Remove the small rectangular cap covering the shift lock override access hole by gently prying with a flat screwdriver or trim tool
- Insert a flathead screwdriver, key, or similar tool into the override slot and press down firmly
- While holding the override down, press the brake pedal (if power available) and move the shifter to Neutral
- If successfully in Neutral, the vehicle can now roll freely - maintain firm brake or chock wheels before releasing parking brake
Shift-lock override location
Left side of the shifter base, covered by a small rectangular cap on the shifter bezel near the driver's side edge
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override will still work mechanically. Turn the key to ACC position mechanically (no electrical power needed for key cylinder). The override releases the mechanical lock independent of electrical systems. You will not have power brakes, so use parking brake and wheel chocks for all vehicle control.